Gwendolyn McDowell’s childhood presented a series of painful life events that no child should have to endure. But in spite of these experiences, she pushed onward and let her faith sustain her while turning her trauma into triumph. Let’s meet her…
Where were you born/raised and where are you based now?
I was born and raised in Washington, D.C., and I am still based in the DMV area, where I continue my work in the entertainment industry and child advocacy.
Tell our readers about yourself, including how you got started in your current field.
My passion for the arts started at a young age when my foster parents recognized my gift for singing. At nine, I joined the children’s choir at my church, performed in school plays, and participated in talent shows. At 14, I was accepted into the Duke Ellington School of the Performing Arts, where I majored in Vocal Music and later trained in Acting & Movement. My mentor, the late Mike Malone, helped shape my career, leading me to perform on national and international stages. During COVID, I discovered a new passion for filmmaking, and in 2021, I wrote, directed, casted, and produced my first film, Stained Glass, which reflects my own childhood experiences in the foster care system.
What are you most known for and have you let that control the reigns of your trajectory or do you still feel like you are being your authentic self?
I am most known for my work in theater, music, and film and my advocacy for children. While my past accomplishments have shaped my journey, I stay true to my mission of using storytelling as a tool for awareness and empowerment. My work continues to evolve, but my purpose remains unchanged: to give a voice to the unheard.
Have you ever failed at anything? How did you recover?
Yes, I have experienced failure. My marriage ended in divorce 14 years ago, which led to a nervous breakdown and clinical depression that left me unable to work for several years. My recovery was a journey of faith and healing. I leaned on my personal relationship with God—spending many days in tears, praying, reading my Bible, and finding strength in sermons about faith and healing. Therapy and medication also played a vital role, along with the unconditional love and support of my family. Through all of this, I was able to fully recover and move forward.
If you could go back and share one thing with yourself as a 16-22 year old what would it be and why?
If I could speak to my 16-22-year-old self, I would tell her never to shrink back or dim her light just to fit in. You are enough exactly as you are, and the right people will embrace your authenticity. I would remind her not to seek love and acceptance in the wrong places, especially from relationships that distract her from her dreams. Love starts with knowing your worth, and no one else can define that for you. I would also tell her to honor herself by waiting until marriage for intimacy—because every choice has lasting effects, and self-respect is worth more than any momentary affection. Most of all, I would assure her that God deeply loves her and that His plans for her life are greater than she can imagine.
Who are you at your core and in life what matters the most to you?
At my core, I am a woman of God—He is my foundation and the most important part of who I am. I am a creative soul who uses my gifts & talents to inspire and uplift others. I am a loyal friend who loves deeply and genuinely wants the best for others. Honesty is important to me, and I strive to be truthful in all I do. When I commit to something, I give it my all—I’m detail-oriented and determined to see things through.
What sets you apart?
What sets me apart is my unwavering authenticity of just being myself. I speak the truth in love, stay determined in pursuing my dreams, and refuse to let others hold me back. My resilience is shaped by the challenges I’ve overcome, which have turned my pain into strength and purpose.
When life gets crazy, how do you decompress and recover you?
When life feels overwhelming, I unwind by getting extra rest, tidying my home, meditating, praying, and listening to music. I also find comfort in talking to my best friend, spending quality time with family and friends, attending church, watching my favorite TV shows and movies, and enjoying good soul food.
Is being intentional important to you? Why or why not?
Being intentional is important to me because it helps me stay focused, avoid distractions, and remain true to who I am, both in my spiritual walk and my artistic journey.
Tell us about any point in your life’s journey that you felt changed you for the better?
What changed me for the better was realizing that I was exhausting myself trying to please everyone—changing who I was just to fit in and be accepted. No matter how hard I tried, it was never enough; some people were satisfied, but others never would be. One day, it hit me: if someone will always be unhappy with who I am, I might as well be true to myself. The moment I embraced my authenticity, I found so much more peace.
How do you connect or maintain connection-with business colleagues, family or friends?
I stay connected with business colleagues, family, and friends by being intentional about communication and quality time. With colleagues, I nurture relationships through networking, collaboration, and regular check-ins—whether through meetings, emails, or social gatherings. With family and friends, I prioritize meaningful conversations, whether by phone, text, or in person. I also make time for special moments like celebrations, church gatherings, and shared activities. No matter the relationship, I believe in showing up, being present, and making an effort to maintain genuine connections.
Has there been a time where adapting to a major change was life altering for you?
Yes, a major life change for me was when my siblings and I were taken from our mother and placed in Junior Village and the foster care system. It was life-altering because I was only 5 years old and didn’t fully understand what was happening with my mom and dad or why I couldn’t live with them anymore.
What do you like to do when you are not working?
When I’m not working, I enjoy going for walks, exercising, shopping, and spending time with my family and friends. I also like to relax and watch TV.I enjoy reading, listening to music, spending time with family, and finding inspiration in everyday moments.
Of all your roles, which are you most proud of and if different, which one has been the most fulfilling?
The most proud & fulfilling role for me has been the executive producer, director, and writer of my first film, Stained Glass. I’m most proud of it because, despite the many challenges—being told it didn’t make sense, it wasn’t a good screenplay, that it was too soon, and dealing with limited resources during the COVID pandemic in terms of location, budget, and social distancing—I persevered. The film was a great success, selling out twice at a regal theatre and earning several wins at national and international film festivals.
What is family life like for you?
Family is everything to me, second only to God. My youngest daughter, who is 23, and my 6-year-old grandson live with me, and they bring so much life and joy into my home. I help my grandson with his daily school routine—getting him up, ironing his clothes, and making him breakfast. After school, we have quality time together for at least an hour once he’s had dinner and finished his homework. I also take him to the children’s church most Sundays.
I also support my oldest daughter, who is 38, and my son-in-law with their church work, including feeding the homeless and helping with other community outreach programs. My oldest grandson, who is 12, is an author and plays golf and soccer, and I attend his games and book tours.
Spending time with my extended family is also important to me, especially during holidays and birthdays. Despite our busy schedules, we prioritize intentionally gathering and celebrating these special moments together.
What is one thing that you’re not good at that you wish you had a better grasp of?
I’m not good at various computer programs.
How do you support, empower or uplift other women?
I support, empower, and uplift other women by encouraging them to embrace their worth, be persistent in pursuing their dreams and overcome challenges. I share my experiences and provide resources to help them grow personally and professionally. Whether through words of affirmation, practical assistance, or simply being a listening ear, I strive to uplift women and remind them that they are capable, valuable, and deserving of love and success.
What is a female-authored only book outside of your own, that you would recommend to another woman?
Beauty After Broken by Lonnie Grant.
When you look back at your experiences in totality, can you share an experience that has defined the way you move and handle life today?
Looking back on my experiences, one defining moment was nearly losing myself due to the strain of a difficult marriage, a high-pressure job, and raising children all at once. That experience taught me the importance of protecting my mental health. Now, I set boundaries and don’t allow others to overwhelm me to the point of unmanageable stress.
What is up next for you? Do you have any projects, events or products to promote?
What’s next for me is producing another movie and hosting master classes for creatives. I’ll share more details soon!
How can our readers connect with you for more information?
Instagram: @Gwendolyn McDowell
Facebook: Blossom Artists
Website: www.blossomartists.com
Support my film: Stained Glass
